One of the biggest deterrents to frequent testing is the pain and soreness caused by finger sticks. Recently, the most significant and widely available innovation to help solve that problem is the alternative site monitor, which allows the patient to replace finger sticks with blood drawn in less sensitive areas of the body such as the forearm and thigh. These meters may require smaller blood samples than traditional models, but as previously discussed, the readings they give may vary from fingertip readings.

The only FDA-approved lancing device that does not use a traditional needle lancet is the Lasette. The Lasette uses a laser system to puncture the skin and draw blood from the finger, and is said to be no more painful than a quick snap from a rubber band. A doctor's prescription is needed to purchase the unit, which is approved for ages five and up. It's expensive (about $1,000), but along with reducing the pain of traditional lancets it also eliminates the problem of sharps disposal.